He was only seven.
One minute, he was playing in the water.
The next, he was gone.
The tragic drowning of a little boy at a condominium pool in Atlantis Melaka has left many of us lost for words – especially those of us who are parents.
Because honestly, how many times have we said, “Just a quick scroll on my phone,” or thought, “They’re big enough to swim on their own now”?
We’ve all been there.
But this heartbreaking incident isn’t just a news story – it’s a painful reminder that drowning is silent, quick, and unforgiving.
And it can happen to any of our children.
So, today, we’re not here to judge.
We’re here to say: let’s learn from this.
10 Ways to Keep Your Child Safe Around Water
- Be Present, Not Just Nearby: Create a family rule: one adult is the “Water Watcher”- no phones, no distractions, full attention on the kids. Rotate if needed every 15–20 minutes.
- Swimming Skills Aren’t Magic Shields: Yes, swimming lessons are valuable. But they don’t make kids immune to danger. Combine lessons with life jackets, consistent rules, and supervision, even if your child “knows how to swim.”
- Bright Swimsuits Can Save Lives: Not all swimsuits are equal. Light blue, white, or grey blends into pool water. Choose neon colours like orange, pink, red, or yellow, as they’re easier to spot during an emergency.
- Teach the “Ask First” Habit: Children should always ask before going near or into any water – even at home or on holidays. It builds awareness and encourages them to pause before jumping in.
- Know CPR: In a water emergency, seconds matter. Do you know what to do if your child isn’t breathing? Take a CPR course – it could save a life.
- Don’t Forget the Hidden Hazards: Pools aren’t the only danger zones. Toddlers can drown in just a few inches of water. Drain tubs and kiddie pools immediately, close bathroom doors, cover buckets, and secure ponds or tanks.
- Floaties Aren’t Safety Devices: Those cute armbands and float rings? They’re not reliable life-saving gear. Opt for properly fitted life jackets, especially for open water play.
- Get Your Condo or Community Involved: Do your condo pools have depth markers, safety signage, or accessible lifebuoys?
- Practise Water Safety Like Fire Drills: Turn water safety into fun, teachable moments. Ask: “What would you do if you slipped?” Practise floating, calling for help, and finding the pool edge.
- Repeat, Reinforce, Revisit Often: Water safety isn’t a one-time conversation. It’s a lifelong skill. The more confident and informed your child is, the safer they’ll be.
Stay Present, Stay Informed
As parents, we’re constantly running on empty.
So when the kids are happily splashing around, it feels like the perfect moment to catch your breath, check your phone, or chat with a friend.
But here’s the truth: all it takes is one second, and everything can change.
That’s why we owe it to our children – to be informed, to be vigilant, and to never let our guard down when it comes to water safety.
Not because we’re paranoid, but because we’re present.
It’s not forever. Our children will outgrow floaties and call for us a little less one day.
But while they’re still little, while they still need us – let’s stay close, stay alert, and stay committed.
Because these moments by the pool aren’t just fun memories.
They’re opportunities to protect what matters most.
Let’s do this. For them and for us.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.
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